MANILA, Philippines - Policeman Neil Perez (real name: Mariano Flormata Jr.), 30, whose colleagues were among the 44 PNP SAF (Special Action Force) members killed in the Mamasapano tragedy, won for the country its first Mister International title, beating more than 30 other aspirants at ceremonies held Saturday night in Seoul. True to his profession, Neil saluted when his name was called as winner, holding back tears.
During the Q&A, Neil was asked this question: What’s your biggest disappointment in life? Through an interpreter, Neil answered in Filipino: Unang-una, ang biggest disappointment ko ay ang hindi ko paggalang sa mga magulang ko na pinagsisihan ko, dahil isang mahalagang bagay ang mahalin ang ating mga magulang dahil sila ang pangalawang utos ng Diyos para sa akin sa ating mga Katoliko.
Neil’s winning form. Raymund Isaac/STAR
Runners-up were candidates from Lebanon (first), Czech Republic (second), Poland (third) and Slovenia (fourth).
Neil is a Criminology graduate from Manuel L. Quezon University. His father is a retired police sergeant who was with Manila’s Finest, the Western Police District (now Manila Police District). Neil joined the police force in 2008, specializing in bombs and explosives, and has earned 13 medals for excellence in responding to disasters and civil disturbances.
Until recently, he was part of the Aviation Security Group at NAIA Terminal 3.